Page 32 - May 25

since 2020. He led VAI in representing and supporting
the interests of the global helicopter industry and
other vertical aviation stakeholders. Additionally, Viola
spearheaded the association’s rebranding from Helicopter
Association International to VAI, which widened the
association’s focus to encompass the rapid expansion and
technological evolution occurring in vertical aviation.
Prior to VAI, Viola spent over a decade at the FAA.
His last role at the agency was director of General
Aviation Safety Assurance, where he was responsible
for maintaining consistency and standardization in the
application of safety oversight activities for the general
aviation community. Additionally, Viola spent over two
decades as a U.S. Army aviator, achieving the rank of
colonel. He is an airline transport pilot and certified
flight instructor for helicopters and airplanes and has
accumulated more than 8,000 flight hours, including
1,100 with night-vision goggles. Source: GAMA
National Aviation Hall of Fame Honors
GAMA CEO and Team
The National Aviation Hall of Fame announced that
Pete Bunce, former president and CEO of the General
Aviation Manufacturers Association, and the GAMA
team are the recipients of the 2025 Milton Caniff Spirit
of Flight Award. The honor recognizes their collective
leadership, advocacy and lasting contributions to the
advancement of general aviation.
In making the announcement, NAHF said: Under Pete
Bunce’s leadership, GAMA consistently championed
safety, innovation and workforce development within
the aviation sector while promoting the broader societal
benefits of general aviation. Through initiatives like the
Aviation Design Challenge, which engages high school
students in STEM (science, technology, engineering and
math) education through aviation-focused projects,
and advocacy for sustainable aviation technologies,
GAMA has inspired the next generation of aviators and
innovators. Their commitment to fostering economic
growth, enhancing safety standards, and supporting
charitable aviation causes reflects a sustained
dedication to serving national needs.
The recipients will be honored during the President’s
Reception on Sept. 18 as part of the NAHF 61st
Enshrinement Dinner and Ceremony in Wichita, Kansas.
The 2025 enshrinees are Julie Clark, John Goglia, Mae
Jemison, Gen. Lloyd “Fig” Newton (USAF Ret.), Phoebe
Omlie and Frank Robinson. More than 500 people,
including aviation enthusiasts, industry leaders and
several returning enshrines, are expected to attend two
days of events. The events are open to the public by
advance registration only. Source: nationalaviation.
org KA
22
29
6
30
30 •
­ KING AIR MAGAZINE MAY 2025